Wage rage: Tory revolt over George Osborne's local pay plans

The Chancellor is looking to set different pay rates for teachers, nurses and council workers in different regions

GEORGE Osborne is facing a growing revolt by Tory MPs over his plans to introduce local pay levels.

The Chancellor is looking to set different pay rates for teachers, nurses and council workers in different regions.

But the move has been branded “wrong and divisive” by MPs outside London who fear it will slash wages and make it harder to recruit.

Geoffrey Cox, Tory MP for Torridge and West Devon, said his area already suffered from “some of the lowest wages in the country”. He added: “I am extremely cautious about any change that might further depress incomes in our area or that might act as a disincentive to those in the medical profession to work here.”

And Guy Opperman, Tory MP for Hexham in the North East said: “Our current pay system already allows for adjustments in high-cost areas like London. I do not believe reducing public sector pay will help stimulate private economic growth.”

Mr Osborne announced the measures last year with a view to introducing them in April 2013. The Armed Forces, doctors and dentists would be excluded, but teachers, NHS staff and council workers could see pay frozen or cut to reflect local wage levels.

Christina McAnea of the Unison union said: “Regional pay would cause skills shortages with nurses, and specialised staff being hard to recruit and retain, hitting the care of patients.” The Treasury said no final decision had been taken.